EC calls on Bulgaria to continue reforms in order to receive Recovery Plan funds

A total of €370 million will be unfrozen for Bulgaria under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) because of progress in combating corruption. This was announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen after her first meeting with Prime Minister Rumen Radev in Brussels, BNR correspondent Angelina Piskova reported.

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“The establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission is of key importance for the effective prosecution of corruption at all levels. And what really matters is that it must be able to carry out its activities independently,” von der Leyen stressed, adding: “Another important step is the reorganization of the Prosecutor General’s Office. The goal is to strengthen its position for successful anti-corruption investigations.”

Among the main topics discussed between the European Commission president and the prime minister were also the modernization of the energy sector, the transition to clean energy, and the EU’s long-term budget.

Von der Leyen noted that the “NextGenerationEU” program is already delivering concrete results, and Bulgaria has received nearly €3.3 billion in funding. However, she warned that the deadline for absorbing the funds expires in August 2026 and that reforms must continue at an accelerated pace.

According to her, Bulgaria plays a decisive role in the EU’s collective defense, particularly in the “Vigilance on the Eastern Flank” strategy. “We will support Bulgaria with more than €3.2 billion through the SAFE mechanism. We are ready to sign the loan agreement with Bulgaria at any time,” she emphasized.

Bulgaria's PM Radev meets NATO secretary general Mark Rutte in Brussels

Radev pointed out that the EU needs a clear vision, stability, security, and solid investments in competitiveness. In addition, it also needs a cohesion policy and a sustainable agricultural policy that guarantees peace of mind for European citizens.

Edited by Ivo Ivanov